Sequentix has announced that the Cirklon2 sequencer is now available without a waiting list, after several years.
The Sequentix Cirklon2 is a multi-track hardware sequencer. It features the same MIDI, CV and USB device connectivity as its predecessor, but adds USB host support, a full-colour TFT display, 4 x data memory and a major CPU performance boost.
Features include:
480×128 pixel full-colour TFT touch-screen.
19 rotary encoders with push-switches.
2 assignable knobs.
35 high-quality Cherry keys with integrated LEDs.
A further 35 tri-colour status LEDs.
Basic model has 5 fully independent MIDI in and out ports.
USB host and device ports
CVIO option adds 16 CV and 8 gate outputs.
Movable rear panel allows desktop or rackmount use
The new album From A Place To Bury Strangers, Synthesizer, features a record cover that you can turn into a DIY synthesizer.
The album cover features the circuit board for the synthesizer. If you’ve got basic synth DIY skills, you can solder on the electrical components needed to turn it into a working synth.
This video features a hands-on demo of the assembled synth, along with tips on assembling it.
Topics covered:
00:00 – Intro
00:45 – Preview
00:52 – Disclaimer
01:55 – Build tips
02:27 – Fake CA3080 chips
04:00 – Large ground plane
05:29 – Might need help
06:17 – Where’s Waldo
06:58 – Schematic vs. PCB
07:59 – No instructions
08:35 – Trying the synth
10:28 – Adding delay
11:52 – Piezo and tap triggers
13:23 – As a guitar effect
16:34 – Mangling a drum beat
Synthesizer is available now for $52.99. Full kits are priced at $195.99, but they are currently sold out.
Roland’s latest SP-404 MKII update turns its legendary sampler into a Serato DJ controller.
SP-404 MKII’s V5 software update brings native support for Serato DJ Pro, Serato DJ Lite and Serato Studio.
Tomorrow is 404 Day, Roland’s annual celebration of its popular and influential SP-404 sampler, and this one’s a biggie, as the instrument reaches its 20th birthday this year.
In recognition of the anniversary, Roland has announced a major update for the SP-404 MKII that brings Serato compatibility to the sampler for the first time. With built-in integration for Serato DJ Pro and Serato DJ Lite, the SP-404 MKII becomes a pre-mapped controller that can be incorporated into both DJ sets and hybrid live/DJ performances.
The sampler’s DJ Mode already gave SP-404 MKII users mixing functionality, but Serato integration takes this one step further by transforming the 404 into a highly portable DJ controller with access to Serato DJ features such as real-time stem separation and hot cues, along with its extensive selection of audio effects.
The V5 update also brings compatibility with Serato Studio, the company’s DAW, enabling SP-404 MKII owners to use the sampler as a pre-mapped controller and USB audio interface for the software. They’ll also be able to route audio from the DAW through the 404’s effects, and trigger loops and samples in Serato Studio using the hardware.
If you’re an SP-404 MKII owner but you don’t own Serato DJ Pro or Serato Studio, you can download Serato DJ Lite for free to test out the sampler’s new compatibility.
To celebrate the SP-404’s 20th anniversary, Roland is throwing parties in a long list of cities across the globe featuring live performances, beat battles, artist panels, and exclusive 404 Day merchandise giveaways, while several Roland Stores will be hosting events, including the Roland Store London and the Roland Store Tokyo.
Roland has also shared a fascinating conversation between SP-404 designer Kenji Yamada and current project leader Takeo Shirato where the pair discuss the development of the instrument and its influence on musical culture.
If you are not Roland SP-404MKII owner, you can purchase it via Amazon site.
